Is it alright to give just any dog food to my purebred dog? Or should I really go with breed-specific dog food? My dog is healthy but do I still need to feed him something specific for his breed? These are questions many of us ask when we have new puppies or dogs at home.
I’d bet all of us who have been to a pet store have seen various products of dog foods with different formulations. While there are dog foods that are made for all dog breeds, we still see those that are made especially for a particular breed.
All-Breed Dog Food vs Breed-Specific Dog Food
What’s the difference between all-breed dog food and breed-specific dog food? All dog foods are formulated with the necessary nutrients our dogs need.
The ingredients in dog food for all breeds provide the general nutritional values our furry pets need to grow and thrive. This dog food still provides the nutritional needs of our dogs but at specific values. These dog foods are designed for all dog breeds.
On the other hand, breed-specific dog foods are formulated to answer for some special nutritional needs of some specific breeds.
For example, sporting breeds are energetic and highly active. They need strong muscles and sturdy bones.
Hence, most sporting breeds require dog food with higher protein content for muscle development. They also need healthy carbohydrates to sustain their energy.
Breed-specific dog foods are designed for particular dogs. Hence, specific-breed dog foods come in a special formulation, kibbles, shapes, and sizes for easy consumption of the dog breed it is formulated for.
Is Breed Specific Dog Food Necessary?
Going with all-breed dog food is fine as long as your pet is in generally good condition. Otherwise, feeding your dog with food that is specifically formulated for its breed may prove beneficial too.
Inasmuch as all dogs require almost the same nutritional values from their foods, there are some breeds that are prone to specific ailments and diseases.
For instance, some Golden Retrievers are prone to allergies to corn or soy. Thus, it is sometimes best to provide the best dog food for our Golden Retrievers to avoid allergies and this includes breed-specific dog food.
When your dog experiences breed-related and diet-responsive diseases or ailments, then it is best to go with foods that are specific to its breed.
Also, it is just right to go with specific breed dog food when your furry pet has special physical characteristics.
Take for example the case of a dog with a shorter muzzle and small bite like a Yorkshire Terrier. Some dog food manufacturers prepare our dogs’ food in special kibbles and shapes which makes it easier for dogs with shorter muzzles to consume.
Hence, they come up with specific food for them like this Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dog Food.
Some Wise Words
While specific-breed foods may be beneficial for your pets at some point, it is important to individualize your dog’s diet. Consider your pup’s life stage, physical condition, size, activities, and health problems, if any.
There is really nothing wrong with sticking to generic dog food especially when your dog is not sick. You could always choose an all-breed food when your furry friend requires no particular diet.
When your pet does not develop health problems with his food, there’s no need to change it to something specific. Especially when he loves it too.
As always, it is best to consult your vet on the best food for your dog! He is the best person to tell you what your pets need and what food is best for them.